“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” No doubt, you heard this phrase from your parents growing up. You may even have shared it with your own children in an attempt to sooth the pain caused by hurtful comments. It’s meant as a declaration of mental strength, a statement … Continue reading How Language Affects Your Performance
Change the Way You Talk
Each year, I identify a handful of personal challenges. This is different form setting resolutions – something that millions of people do as part of their New Year’s celebration. I used to set resolutions as well, but switched to challenges for a couple of reasons. First of all, resolutions are often too vague. The most … Continue reading Change the Way You Talk
How to Keep Your Meetings (And Your Team) Moving Forward
Over the past few weeks, I’ve been writing on the topic of team meetings. This series of articles started with a review of 3 meetings you should stop having. That was followed by 4 meeting types that you should be having. I touched on 3 elements that make for a productive meeting, and then last … Continue reading How to Keep Your Meetings (And Your Team) Moving Forward
To Prepare for Your Next Meeting, Just Ask Questions
I’m constantly amazed at how ill-prepared people are for meetings. It doesn’t matter what the meeting is about, who’s in attendance, or what their particular role is – someone always shows up having not done their homework. In my opinion, a lack of preparation indicates a level of disrespect for the organization, the task at … Continue reading To Prepare for Your Next Meeting, Just Ask Questions
Do Your Meetings Disappoint? Try Adding These 3 Elements
I don’t know about you, but I’m sick of bad meetings. I’m tired of listening to a talking head drone on about topics I already know about, have no interest in, or have no influence over. I’m tired of being bored, uninspired, and generally less informed than when the meeting started. In short, I’m tired … Continue reading Do Your Meetings Disappoint? Try Adding These 3 Elements
Four Meetings You Should Be Having Now
Just as there are plenty of meetings that don’t need to take place, there are times when it’s vitally important to bring the team together. Certain things need to be handled in a group setting, not via email or a series of one-on-one conversations. For these, you need to hold a meeting. You may need … Continue reading Four Meetings You Should Be Having Now
Three Meetings You Should Stop Having Now
It’s an event everyone, including the organizer, approaches with apprehension, dread; perhaps even a touch of fear. It’s the regularly scheduled work meeting. Historically dry and boring, yet generally regarded as a necessary evil, meetings have become something we suffer through rather than look forward to. “Death by meeting” has even entered the professional vocabulary … Continue reading Three Meetings You Should Stop Having Now
Four Conversations You Should Have With Your Boss
It goes without saying that regular communication between you and your manager is one sign of a healthy relationship. Ongoing, meaningful conversations are necessary to maintain your connection and ability to “read” each other. When you and your boss are in sync, work is smoother, more efficient, and more productive. If contact is infrequent or … Continue reading Four Conversations You Should Have With Your Boss
Getting to Yes
You have an idea. It’s a great one; an idea that will save the company a lot of money, increase revenue, improve customer service, or just make everyone’s job easier. And it’s a no-brainer; nothing huge; just a small tweak that will move the needle in a positive way. Now you can’t stop thinking about … Continue reading Getting to Yes
The Most Important Relationship of Your Career
There’s no shortage of advice for managers out there. Scores of books have been written about managing employees, leading great service, and working with outside entities. It’s easy to find articles, videos, and even live training events focused on these topics. But when it comes to working with your boss, what’s called “managing up,” there’s … Continue reading The Most Important Relationship of Your Career
